A busted sewage pipe is never good news, especially for a bar. There’s also no reasonable way to delay repairs. So when Ramrod faced this situation, they had to close for four days. Patrons had to find a new spot for a few nights and staff had to rebudget their finances.

But in a crisis, the bond of leather brotherhood was strengthened. Eagle Wilton Manors, which sits about a mile up the road on 4th Ave./Wilton Drive, stepped up to help. They offered to open up early and host happy hour and let Ramrod bartenders staff the early shift. (Ramrod’s happy hour on the patio is a staple.) 

“We had dozens of people tell us how cool this was, and how this is what community should look like,” Eagle owner Chuck King said. “It was heart-warming to see so many good comments and watch people come out and support the Ramrod bartenders.” 

This is hardly a fish-out-of-water scenario. There was already a lot of customer overlap between the two bars and South Florida’s leather community has shown for years that it’s strong enough to support two thriving bars. 

“This is exactly why the Leather community stands the test of time. It has never been just about a building, a logo, or a business, it’s about the soul of the people who show up when the road gets rough,” James Tyrcha, Mr. Ramrod 2023, said. “​Seeing the Eagle Wilton Manors open its doors for the Ramrod crew is a masterclass in solidarity and a powerful reminder that community isn't just a word we use, it’s a commitment we live.” 

The actual repair didn’t take long, but pipes had to be dug out of the Ramrod’s floor. Waiting for the concrete to cure takes as long as it takes and can’t be rushed, so the bar was closed for four days. Each day customers came out to support. 

King and his Eagle team are somewhat shocked to see that others were shocked.  

“I was honestly surprised to learn that many people thought it was unreal that we would do such a thing, but this is community. It’s just what should happen and it was easy for us to help.” 

Ramrod reopened at 9 a.m. Friday morning and capped its first weekend back with a sendoff party for Mr. Ramrod 2026 Jesse Nicholson, who will compete this weekend at IML in Chicago. Mr. EagleWM Jafar Jaafar will also compete. 

“I hope this inspires others to make a kind gesture. In this day and age, everyone needs some extra love,” King said.